I’ve worked for too many people who, after abusing their nice, expensive computers on the Internet for a year or so, tell me, “I don’t know anything about computers.” This is akin to driving on the highway while wearing a blindfold: sooner or later, someone’s going to get hurt. Decide now that it’s time to drive defensively.
There are a number of computer chores that must be performed regularly in order to keep the bad guys from messing with your machine. The average computer user should do these chores at least once a week; I do many of them on my personal computers every day. Ignore this list at your own peril!
1. Update the Operating System (OS). For most users, this means updating some version of Microsoft Windows. For users of Windows 2000 and XP, run “Windows Update,” which can be found in the listings that display when you click “Start.” Users of Apple and Linux systems have similar functions. Users of Windows ME and Windows 98 should seriously consider updating to a more current OS. Users of 2000 and XP should be at Service Pack 4 and 2 levels, respectively, plus all of the later available updates. Studies show that without updating, a brand-new, out-of-the-box Windows XP machine will last only about 20 minutes on the Internet before being hammered by the bad guys.
2. Properly configure and regularly update your antivirus and firewall programs. All decent antivirus/firewall programs have update functions. As there are upwards of 100 new viruses released every day, you must take the responsibility to find out how to configure and update your programs. I recently worked for an attorney that had a great antivirus package installed, but it wasn’t properly configured to actually stop viruses. As a result, his machine was unusable. If you don’t know what these things are, find someone who does.
3. Use and update anti-adware and anti-spyware programs. Adware and spyware are the fastest-growing threats on the Internet, and there are good, free programs to keep your system clean. Look for Ad-Aware by Lavasoft, and Spybot Search & Destroy by SaferNetworking.org. Even Microsoft is now offering a free anti-spyware program, which can be found through microsoft.com.
4. Stop using Internet Explorer for Internet browsing and Outlook Express for email. These two programs, besides having inherent security flaws, are under relentless attack from the bad guys. Instead, use Mozilla Firefox for browsing, and Qualcomm’s Eudora for email. Not only are they superior programs, they are easy to use and free!
5. Learn how to properly configure your OS administrative options and services, and network and security policies. These often-overlooked areas are important to your security program. For computers being used in a professional or business setting, they are critical, and should not be ignored.
This is much more to Internet security than can be covered in one article. You owe it to yourself, and all of the other drivers on the Internet highway, to learn how to drive safely!